Gosaikunda Lake Trek: Less Crowded and Remote Area

                                                    
                                                    destination
                                                    Langtang
                                                
                                                    duration
                                                    11 Days
                                                
                                                    grade
                                                    Moderate
                                                
                                                    start/end point
                                                    Kathmandu/Kathmandu
                                                
                                                    region
                                                    Langtang
                                                
                                                    max altitude
                                                    4380 m/ 14,454 ft
                                                
                                                    group size
                                                    2-15
                                                
                                                    meal
                                                    All inclusive
                                                
                                                    activity
                                                    6-7 Hrs
                                                
                                                    accommodation
                                                    Hotel/Teahouse
                                                
                                                    season
                                                    Autumn/Spring

Gosainkunda Lake Trek

Bath in the pristine clear “holy” water of Gosainkunda Lake, a religious site and abode of Hindu deities Shiva and Gauri.

This is a short trek in the much less crowded and quiet Langtang Region of Nepal. Gosainkunda Lake is at an altitude of 4380 meters in the Rasuwa District. As it melts, after remaining frozen for 6 months of the year (October to March), it forms the Trishuli River. There are a total of 108 lakes in the vicinity. Lauribina La Pass (4610m) is also nearby.

Its waters are considered holy and of particular significance during the Gangadashahara and the Janai Purnima festivals when thousands of pilgrims from Nepal and India visit the area. Gosainkunda is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva when he thrust his Trishul (holy Trident) into a mountain to extract water so that he could cool his stinging throat after he had swallowed poison.

Langtang and in particular, Gosainkunda is located close to the Tibetan border. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking begin the trek to Gosainkunda at Dhunche Village in the Langtang Himal. On the first day, we reach the Langtang Region and take the trail that leads to Chandan Bari (3200m) and then to Laurebinayak (3700m) on day two and on following days to Sing Gompa, Lauribina (4610m), Gosainkunda, Phedi, Ghopte, Tharepati, Mangengoth, Kutumsang, Thodung and finally to our departure point Chisapani.

The journey explores the vast area between Langtang and Ganesh Himal and allows you to experience the unique culture, traditions and lifestyle of the Tamang people.

Besides Gosainkunda Lake, there are fantastic views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers and unique wildlife. The rhododendron forests, during spring, are ablaze with pink color. The trail passes through bamboo groves and alpine forests, and if luck has it you will also see the somewhat elusive red panda, or maybe the Himalayan black bear, Himalayan Tahr and rhesus monkeys. The birdlife is also abundant in this region. A reasonable level of fitness is required on this trek due to climbing at higher altitudes.
The Gosainkunda Lake -Langtang trek can be done all year – even in winter!

Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is sure you will enjoy this less traveled trek that offers quiet and unspoiled scenery and a multitude of high altitude lakes.

Highlights of Gosainkunda Lake Trek

A unique out of the way, a quiet sanctuary with fewer travelers.
Stunning views of the Himalayas and holy lakes of Gosainkunda.
Explore Tibetan culture and Villages.
Witness unique wildlife and beautiful fauna and flora – meerkats, red panda.
Visit Sing Gompa and Tamang villages.

ITINERARY

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Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu transfer to hotel.

Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport you will be met by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking staff and transported to your hotel, followed by a short briefing concerning your trek. In the evening we will provide a welcome dinner.

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche (2,30m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

We head north for about 5 to 7 hours driving through the scenic foothills out of Kathmandu until we reach Dhunche. The first leg of the journey takes us to Trishuli Bazaar and after along a gravel road until Dhunche where we stay the night. The type of transport we utilize will depend on road conditions. After heavy rainfall a 4WD is preferable.

Day 3 : Trek from Dhunche to Sing Gompa (3,250m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Today we have a 5 to 7-hour trek, firstly heading to The first part of the trails ascends to Ghatte Khola (river) where we cross over on a suspension bridge and then ascend to Sing Gompa along a trail through silver oak, pine and rhododendron forests..Sing Gompa is also home to an old cheese manufacturing plant. Tonight we stay at Sing Gompa.

Day 4 : Trek from Sing Gompa to Lauribina (3,910m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Leaving Sing Gompa we have our first views of Ganesh Himal as we follow the trail on the northern edge of a ridge before reaching Cholangpati Village. Ascending higher we come to Lauribina where we stay the night.

Day 5 : Trek from Lauribina to Gosainkunda (4,380m) Duration: 3-4 hours.

The trek today is about 2 to 3 hours along a trail with amazing views of many surrounding lakes. The main attraction here is Gosainkunda Lake. The trail gradually climbs higher passing lush meadows and ancient stone walls, Chortens, and Buddhist shrines. The first lake along this trail is Saraswati Kund that is quite a distance below us. The next lake we come to is the much larger Bhairab Kund. Just above the lake are stone figurines of Saraswati and Ganesh. A little further on the trail we reach Gosainkunda where we stay the night.

Day 6 : Trek from Gosainkunda to Ghopte (3,780m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Our trek today takes us through Lauribina La Pass (4610m) can be treacherous if there has been a lot of snow. The trail winds its way past Dudh Kund, Ganesh Kund, and Surya Kund lakes. Leaving the pass we descend down a steep and rugged trail to the lodge at Phedi High Camp (4100m) that is now closed due to storm damage. We continue until we reach Phedi where we stay the night.

Day 7 : Trek from Ghopte to Tharepati (3,600m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Today we trek for 6 to 7 hours under imposing cliffs through juniper and rhododendron forests next to a river with occasional waterfalls cascading from above. We follow the trail as it descends to Mera Kharka (3566m) and then on toTharepati (3690m) with some fantastic views over Helambu Village. We follow a ridge that leads to Mangengoth. Tonight we stay at Tharepati.

Day 8 : Trek from Tharepati to Mangengoth (3,420m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Leaving Tharepati it is a relatively easy trek along a wide trail that offers views to the east and west with possible glimpses of Ganesh to Gaurishankar. The area is bounded by forest and a side trek to Kyuola Bhanjyang (3480m) is an option where you may see the elusive red panda and meerkats frolicking around..

Day 9 : Trek from Mangengoth to Kutumsang (2,470m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

The 4 to 5 hour trek today follows the ridge to Kutumsang with a rest stop at Sangugupte Village where we can have tea. We descend through the forest along a difficult path with steep steps and monkeys around us in the tree tops. Just before reaching Kutumsang is a white stupa. Tonight we stay at Kutumsang.

Day 10 : Trek from Kutumsang to Thodung (2,160m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Today is quite a challenging trek as we head to Gul Zhanjiang and on to Gul Bhanjyang (2130) with its narrow streets and several lodges. Tonight we stay at Thodung.

Day 11 : Trek from Thodung to Chisapani (2,165m) 5-6 hours.

A 5 to 6 hour trek today is through a more humid region passing through Chipling (2170m) and Lapche with awesome panoramic views of the Annapurna Ranges in the west and Chobo Bamare in the east. The trail heads downhill to Thankune Bhanjyang (1900m) and on to Pati Bhanjyang (1830). The trail along this section is rough but improves as we get closer to Chisapani where we stay the night. From here there are often spectacular sunset vistas.

Day 12 : Trek from Chisapani to Sundarijal & drive to Kathmandu.

Today we trek for 3 to 4 hours through the sub-tropical forests of Shivapuri National Park then head through Borlang Bhanjyang pass at which point we descend through the forest down stone steps until we reach Malkharka (1855m). We reach Sundrajijal (1460m) from where we take a bus to Kathmandu.

Day 13 : Transfer to International Airport.

Today your adventure ends and you depart Nepal with fond memories and many photos of spectacular scenes from your trek to this amazing out of the way Langtang region of the Himalayas. A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will take you to the airport, approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in this mountainous wonderful – Nepal.

SERVICES

Costs included:

Airport / Hotel / Airport transfers by private vehicle.
2 night's at Kathmandu hotel with breakfast.
Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the trek.
Fresh fruits every night after dinner.
Trekking lodge accommodation during the trek.
Langtang National Park entry permit & Tourist Infomation Management System (TIMS) permit.
Transportation by Bus Kathmandu-Dhunche and Sundarijal to Kathmandu.
English speaking guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
A strong, helpful porter with his salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel insurance company).
Optional use of the sleeping bag, down Jacket, duffel, and walking pole (to be returned after trip completed).
Government taxes, service charges, and official expenses.
Assistant guide group size above 8+ people.

Costs excluded:

Meals and hotel whilst you are in Kathmandu prior to the trek.
Nepal entry visa fee.
International airfare.
Your personal expenses.
All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic hot and cold drinks.
Battery charging and hot shower during the trek on the tea houses.
Tips for the guide, porter and driver (Tipping is expected).

EQUIPMENTS

The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.

General

All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
Daypack

Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear

A pair of half gloves
A warmer hat that covers the ears
Sunglasses
Neckwarmer
Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
Headlamp and an extra set of batteries

Hands

A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
Warmer shell gloves and liner

Upper Body

long sleeve t-shirts
Thermal tops
wool jacket or pullover
Sports bras for women and girls
Water and windproof shell jacket

Lower Body

Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
windproof and waterproof trousers
warmer trousers
Comfortable trekking pants
Extra casual sport pants

Footwear

A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
Pair of sandals
4-5 pairs of woolen socks
Sock liners
Light shoes and sneakers
First Aid Kits and Medicines
Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
Water purifying pills

(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)

Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek

4 passport size photos with original passport
Water bottle & filter
Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)

Extra things

Comfortable trekking poles
Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
Power bank and music players
Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)

GOOD TO KNOW

Accommodation

You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfortable and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.

Meals during the trek

In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Langtang region is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.

Transportation

We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.

Physical fitness

This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.